Burgundy Spice Sweetshrub

Burgundy Spice Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus var. purpureus 'Burgundy Spice')

Burgundy Spice Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus var. purpureus 'Burgundy Spice') is a richly colored, deciduous native shrub noted for its deep maroon flowers and striking burgundy foliage. A standout cultivar of the Eastern Sweetshrub, this selection adds fragrance, bold foliage color, and multi-season interest to woodland edges, shaded borders, and native plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Burgundy Spice' is prized for its dark, lustrous maroon leaves that retain their color well into the summer�unlike the green foliage of the species. In late spring to early summer, it produces fragrant, dark reddish-brown, magnolia-like flowers with a spicy, fruity scent. As the season progresses, the foliage deepens in tone and eventually turns yellow in fall. The shrub has a dense, rounded form and grows at a moderate rate, offering ornamental value long after the blooms have faded.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay, loam, and sandy textures
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture, especially in full sun
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Dark foliage and fragrant blooms make it a bold seasonal feature
• Woodland Gardens: Native habit and shade tolerance make it ideal for naturalized areas
• Foundation Planting: Rich foliage color offers contrast near light-colored buildings
• Pollinator Gardens: Scented flowers attract bees and beneficial insects
• Scent Gardens: Plant near patios or windows to enjoy the spicy fragrance

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist, especially during dry periods or in full sun locations
• Pruning: Minimal pruning required; shape or thin after flowering if desired
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed
• Mulching: Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Avoid drought-prone or compacted soils for best foliage quality

Why Choose Burgundy Spice Sweetshrub?

• Burgundy Foliage: Deep-colored leaves add season-long visual interest
• Fragrant Blooms: Spicy, fruity scent enhances gardens from late spring into summer
• Native Versatility: Supports local ecosystems while offering bold ornamental appeal
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and naturally tidy in habit
• Focal Point: Rich color and fragrance make it a dramatic highlight in shady or mixed borders

Calycanthus floridus var. purpureus 'Burgundy Spice' combines native durability with bold foliage and aromatic flowers, offering a distinctive focal point for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, high-impact color and fragrance in the landscape.